In today’s booming social media environment, the act of publishing false information is becoming more common. From Facebook and TikTok to online forums, unverified or fabricated content spreads rapidly. This causes harm not only to individuals and businesses but also affects social order and public security. This article by DNP Viet Nam Law Firm outlines the new penalties for publishing false information under Decree 15/2020/ND-CP and Decree 14/2022/ND-CP, and also explains the complaint procedure when one’s rights and interests are infringed.
1. Penalties for publishing false information causing serious consequences
If false information leads to damage, insults dignity, or harms an organization or individual, the penalties increase:
– A fine of VND 20,000,000 – 30,000,000.
– The violator must remove the illegal content immediately.
– The violator may also be required to correct the information and make a public apology upon request.
2. Publishing false information may lead to criminal prosecution
Apart from administrative penalties, the act of publishing false information may result in criminal liability under:
– Article 156 of the Penal Code 2015 (amended 2017) – Crime of defamation.
– Article 288 of the Penal Code 2015 (amended 2017) – Crime of illegal provision or use of computer network and telecommunications information.
3. Complaint procedures when false information is posted
When affected by false or misleading content, both individuals and businesses have the right to request removal, request a public apology, demand compensation, or file a complaint with competent authorities. DNP Viet Nam Law Firm recommends following the process below.
3.1. Collect evidence proving the false information
You should prepare the following evidence:
– The link to the post.
– Screenshots showing date and time.
– Related comments and sharing activities.
– Proof of damage such as loss of reputation, clients, or revenue.
– The more complete the evidence is, the faster the violation can be handled.
3.2. Send a request to the person who posted the false information
In many cases, negotiation is the most effective first step:
– Send an email or message requesting removal of the false content.
– Ask the violator to correct the information and issue a public apology.
– Set a clear time limit for handling the matter (1–3 days).
– If the violator does not cooperate, proceed to the next step.
3.3. Submit a complaint to the authorities
Authorities responsible for handling false information include:
| Authority | Applicable cases |
| Department of Information and Communications (now Department of Science & Technology) | False information on social media or websites |
| Police | Defamation, insults causing serious harm to honor or dignity |
| Facebook/TikTok/Zalo platform administration | Quick post removal through reporting tools |
A complaint dossier should include:
– A written complaint clearly stating your request.
– All supporting evidence collected.
– Documents proving the damage or documents showing the organization making the claim.
The new penalties for publishing false information are now stricter. Violators may face administrative fines, forced content removal, public apology, or even criminal prosecution. Understanding the complaint procedures helps individuals and businesses protect their reputation and legitimate rights. If you need legal support, please contact DNP Viet Nam Law Firm for fast, accurate, and professional assistance.
DNP VIET NAM LAW FIRM
Contact:
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